Seasonal change in attractiveness of salt water on female deer

Populations of large herbivores can be efficiently managed by regulating the number of females, which is directly related to recruitment. This study aims to determine seasonal changes in the attractiveness of salt water to female Sika deer (Cervus nippon) in order to cull females more efficiently. Females drank saltwater well at similar times of the year for saltwater with different installation dates. In particular, the frequency of drinking increased from early April to mid-July. Previous studies have shown that salt water is an effective attractant for capturing females, but the results of this study suggest that females may be captured more effectively in spring and early summer. This is the birthing season for sika deer. Culling females in late pregnancy and lactation may also directly reduce recruitment due to higher mortality of young. Saltwater-induced culling of female sika deer may be an effective method of managing overpopulation of the deer.